We in the Hofstra community have a responsibility to use content appropriately and in compliance with US Copyright law. Copyright law can seem vague; without a specific case that has been decided in a court of law often there is no clear-cut “right or wrong” answer. This guide is intended to help you understand some basics of copyright application in the university environment.

The Hofstra University Electronic Reserve Policy covers Ares electronic course reserves, Blackboard, and all content otherwise reproduced and displayed in electronic form. All members of the Hofstra community are expected to comply with this policy. The additional resources listed in this guide provide more detailed assistance in utilizing university resources in ways which fully comply with university copyright policy.

Assistance is available for your copyright journey. Contact Sarah McCleskey, Head of Resource and Collection Services, at 516-463-5076 or Sarah.E.McCleskey@hofstra.edu. I am available for copyright consultations with faculty, presentations on copyright and fair use in the educational environment, assistance with obtaining copyright permissions, guidance on fair use, licensing streaming video content, obtaining Public Performance Rights for film screenings, etc.

This guide does not offer legal advice. The Office of General Counsel assists with legal issues and concerns affecting the University.